ANDREW SHINES ON TR86 TEST DEBUT

New Zealand Formula First Championship front runner and Scorpion Racecars Development Driver Elliot Andrew has completed a successful first test with the New Zealand TR86 squad on Friday.

The 23 year old from Wellington quickly adapted to the new car completing two 20 minute sessions in dry conditions with a best lap time of 1:20.3mins on old tyres.

"It didn't take long to get used to the feel of

the car. On the full Michelin slick tyre, there is certainly heaps of grip. The biggest thing I had to come to grips with was the braking. The car stops unbelievably well with the larger brakes. Getting the balance of braking hard enough without the ABS coming on was a bit to get used to but after a few laps and learning, it became relatively easy. The TR86 car is seriously impressive."

"I would've liked to have been quicker as the championship runners are lapping in the 1.18s, however, they are running on new tyres and there's easily a second and a half in new rubber so I'm reasonably happy."

TR86 championship series co-ordinator Geoff Short was impressed with the performance of Andrew and would like to see him in the series in the future.

"I was very impressed with Elliot's first test in the TR86 at Manfeild. Not only did Elliot post some quick lap times, he was also very consistent with a very smooth driving style. I believe Elliot would be a real title contender for the TR86 championship and also bring a very professional approach to our series. We are looking forward to him joining the championship, should this be the way he decides to take his next step in his career."

Andrew admits although he believes this is the next step on his journey, there are a number of obstacles he has to overcome with the biggest being funding.

"Like any racing driver trying to compete in this sport, finding the financial support to make the grid is the biggest hurdle. While the TR86 Championship represents excellent value for teams and sponsors alike with a vast range of benefits, physically coming up with the money is the hardest thing. I will be working hard with my management to ensure we can find the support we need to get us up to the next level, whichever that may be."

Elliot and his management would like to thank Geoff Short, Andy Kruy, Steven Boyce and the rest of the NZ TR86 team for their support over the test day and to Elliot's current sponsors Pure Sports Nutrition, Harley Menswear, Scorpion Racecars and Motorsport Plus Magazine.